Quick and Easy Teriyaki Chicken

This Quick and Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe features tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich, savory-sweet homemade teriyaki sauce. It’s a satisfying dish that comes together in just minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need something flavorful without much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 15 minutes

• Made with simple pantry ingredients

• Healthier than takeout with no artificial additives

• Versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or vegetables

• Family-friendly and great for meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Low-sodium soy sauce

• Water

• Honey

• Light brown sugar

• Rice vinegar

• Toasted sesame oil

• Fresh ginger

• Fresh garlic

• Cornstarch

• Olive oil

• Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, chopped green onions

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch until smooth.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6–7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.

3. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken. Stir to coat and cook for 1–2 more minutes, until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.

4. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili paste for a spicier sauce

• Use tofu or shrimp instead of chicken for a different protein

• Stir in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas for added veggies

• Adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the honey and brown sugar

• Use pineapple chunks for a fruity twist

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

• Freezing: Freeze cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of chicken works best for teriyaki?

Both boneless chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to a week.

Is marinating the chicken necessary?

No, this recipe is designed to be quick. However, marinating can add extra depth of flavor if you have time.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade gives you more control over the flavor and ingredients.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Make sure the sauce simmers after adding the cornstarch. If it’s still thin, mix a little more cornstarch with water and stir it in.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet to avoid overcrowding.

What are the best sides for teriyaki chicken?

Steamed rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or even a simple salad pair well with this dish.

How long does it take for the sauce to thicken?

It usually takes about 1–2 minutes of simmering for the sauce to reach a nice, glossy thickness.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?

This recipe is intended for stovetop cooking, but you can bake the chicken and then toss it in the cooked sauce if preferred.

Conclusion

Quick and Easy Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect answer to weeknight dinner dilemmas. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious, homemade meal that tastes better than takeout. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite.